What is economics? If you can answer that question confidently, then you should probably consider a career in the field.
If you aren’t sure, don’t worry. Economics is hard to sum up, but this is one explanation: economists use maths and conceptual models to look at processes that would otherwise be too complex to comprehend.
But it is not all about maths and abstract intellectual activity. It is about solving concrete problems, and it can be used to understand, analyse and predict ‘real world’ phenomena such as inflation, international trade and exchange rates.
Freedom to work in any industry
Your first step towards becoming an economist is a university degree. In Australia, there is no shortage of courses that cover economics, commerce, business and finance.
But what if you do not want to work as an economist? As a graduate, you will have developed skills in maths, lateral thinking, reasoning and problem solving. You will also have good general knowledge. With all this in your background, you can work in investment firms, banks and finance companies, insurance, management or even education.
You could also think about undertaking a double degree. Economics can be paired with anything from arts or law to engineering and science. This gives you even more options in the job market.
Another alternative is a vocational education and training (VET) qualification. VET diploma and advanced diploma courses provide skills for associate occupations in finance, accounting and economics. Although they suit some students perfectly, these courses are very different to university courses, as are the career options they open up.
Advance your career with postgraduate study
For the advanced economist, university is the only place to go for masters degrees and doctoral degrees. You will nearly always require an undergraduate qualification with good results to enter, but some graduate certificates and diplomas accept newcomers.
If a life devoted to economics is for you, an Australian qualification is a terrific way to get started or to specialise.
Use our Search function to find a list of Australian institutions offering qualifications in this field.